Ignition Interlock Devices in Snohomish County, WA 

Snohomish County Ignition Interlock License Lawyers

If you have been convicted of DUI in Washington, one of two things will happen: your driver’s license will be suspended, or you’ll agree to drive with an ignition interlock license (IIL).

An ignition interlock license enables you to drive vehicles that have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed. An IID is essentially a breathalyzer integrated into the vehicle’s ignition system. Drivers are required to blow into the device to establish sobriety every time they get behind the wheel; if the device detects the presence of alcohol on the driver’s breath, the vehicle won’t start. Drivers will also need to provide breath samples periodically while behind the wheel.

To qualify for an IIL, a person’s license suspension or revocation cannot involve reckless driving, a minor in possession, or habitual traffic offenses. In many cases, only non-habitual DUI offenders are able to get an IIL. For our clients, it’s often necessary to drive to make a living, earn a degree, or fulfill their familial obligations. As experienced DUI defense lawyers serving all of Western Washington, we fight to ensure our clients get an ignition interlock license whenever it's advantageous, so they can continue leading normal, productive lives.

As your DUI lawyers, DUIHeroes can help you apply for an IIL:

• Step 1: Get SR22 insurance
• Step 2: Install a functioning ignition interlock device (IID)
• Step 3: Fill out the Department of Licensing application

2026 Updates to Ignition Interlock Device Rules 

Washington has enacted several revisions to its ignition interlock laws under RCW 46.20.720. These changes go into effect January 1, 2026. 

Affirmative Defense for Employer-Use Vehicles
One of the key changes allows people who are charged with driving without a properly functioning IID to assert an affirmative defense if both of the following are true:

• The employer vehicle exemption applies
• The defendant gave advance notice to the prosecution before the pretrial hearing that they intended to use this defense

Clarified Limits on the Employer Exemption
Self-employed drivers are not covered by the employer exemption unless the vehicle is used solely for work-related purposes.

Waivers for People with Physical Limitations
Drivers whose IID requirements stem from offenses occurring before June 9, 2016, may request a waiver if they can prove that they are unable to use an ignition interlock device due to a physical disability or limitation. 

Effect of Deferred Prosecution on IID Restriction Periods
When determining the length of IID restrictions, a restriction imposed through a deferred prosecution arising from the same incident is not treated as a prior IID restriction.

IID Tampering Charges in Washington State

The installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) is one of many potential penalties of a drunk driving conviction. Attempting to disable, deceive, or bypass a court-issued ignition interlock device is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year of jail time, a $5,000 fine, or both. Additionally, the DOL can revoke an offender’s license for the remaining term of their IID installation. The same penalties apply if a DUI offender attempts to drive a vehicle without an IID installed.

If you’ve been accused of driving without an IID or of attempting to circumvent your IID, speak with a Snohomish County ignition interlock device attorney as soon as possible. Even if it was a mistake, under no circumstances should you attempt to speak on your own behalf with law enforcement. In our experience, you’ll only make things worse for yourself.

Instead, contact DUIHeroes as soon as you’re able. We can help you understand your rights and take immediate action to protect your future. 

Why Choose the IIL Lawyers at DUIHeroes? 

There are numerous compelling reasons to reach out to our firm. Here are a few:

• We Exclusively Handle DUI Cases: DUIHeroes specializes in DUI defense, providing representation exclusively to clients facing various types of DUI charges. 
• We Have an Exceptional Success Rate: We are aggressive litigators with a 95% average success rate in getting first offenses reduced or dismissed*. 
• Attorney Dichter Is Recognized as a Leader in DUI Defense: Our founding attorney is an authority in his field and is trained in DUI testing procedures. 
• Our Team Knows How to Fight for You: We often look for (and find) mistakes made during field sobriety tests or blood, breath, and urine tests, which we leverage to weaken the state’s case. 

Contact a Snohomish County interlock ignition device lawyer if you are facing DUI charges. Call (425) 296-9358 to discuss your case and learn how to proceed with your defense.